Download Splitgrade user manual 3_0

Heiland electronic GmbH
SPLITGRADE
Paper Gradation Management System
User manual V3.0
Contents
SCHEMATIC VIEW OF THE COMPLETE SPLITGRADE SYSTEM ............ 4
THE PRODUCT ............................................................................................. 5
COPYRIGHT .................................................................................................. 5
W ARRANTY ................................................................................................... 5
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF THE CONTROL UNIT ........................................ 6
FACTORY CALIBRATED PAPER TYPES .............................................................. 7
FACTORY CALIBRATED FILM TYPES ................................................................. 8
CONTENTS OF THE DELIVERY ......................................................................... 8
FEATURES .................................................................................................... 9
OPERATION CONDITIONS ........................................................................ 10
SAFETY ADVICE........................................................................................... 10
INSTALLING THE FILTER MODULE AND CONTROLLER ...................... 10
CONNECTING THE SYSTEM........................................................................... 11
USING THE CONTROLLER........................................................................ 12
DESCRIPTION OF THE PUSH-BUTTONS AND THE DISPLAY ................................ 12
DISPLAY ..................................................................................................... 12
THE PATH TO HIGH QUALITY PRINTS .................................................... 13
PREPARATION ............................................................................................. 13
PRINTING .................................................................................................... 14
RESULT ...................................................................................................... 15
ERROR MESSAGES ...................................................................................... 16
MANUAL CHANGES................................................................................... 17
CHANGING THE GRADE ................................................................................ 17
CHANGING THE EXPOSURE TIME................................................................... 17
ADJUSTMENTS IN SPECIAL CASES ................................................................. 18
BURNING IN WITH PURE YELLOW OR MAGENTA ............................................. 18
2
USER PREFERENCES ............................................................................... 19
CONTROLLER-SPECIFIC SETTINGS ................................................................ 19
BEEPER:..................................................................................................... 19
MEASUREMENT MODE / DENSITY MEASUREMENT .......................................... 20
GENERAL CORRECTIONS OF EXPOSURE TIME AND PAPER GRADE ................... 21
BURN-IN FUNCTION................................................................................... 22
ACTIVATION AND SETTING ........................................................................... 22
EXPOSING .................................................................................................. 23
BURN-IN USING WHITE LIGHT ........................................................................ 23
TEST STRIP MODES .................................................................................. 24
CONTROLLING UP TO THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ENLARGER ....26
USING THE CONTROLLER AS A HIGH QUAL. ANALYSER (SPL-M1) .. 26
CARE AND MAINTENANCE....................................................................... 28
CHANGING THE FUSE ................................................................................... 28
CARE OF INSTRUMENT ................................................................................. 28
APPENDIX: DETAILS OF FILM AND PAPER PROGRAMS ..................... 29
FURTHER PRODUCTS OF HEILAND ELECTRONIC FOR THE
AMBITIOUS PHOTOGRAPHER ................................................................. 31
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
3
Schematic view of the complete SPLITGRADE System
4
The product
Copyright
All programs stored in the controller as well as this manual are protected by
copyright. The copyright belongs to Heiland electronic GmbH, Wetzlar,
Germany with all rights reserved.
Under the copyright laws no part of the programs and no parts of this
manual may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission
of Heiland electronic GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany.
Warranty
This instrument carries the manufacturer's warranty for the period of two
years from the date of purchase. Proof of purchase is the invoice or receipt.
Damage caused by improper handling or unauthorised access invalidates
the guarantee. No warranty either expressed or implied is made of this
instrument regarding its quality, performance, suitability or fitness for a
particular purpose.
The manufacturer is not liable for direct, indirect, special, incidental or
consequential damages arising of the use or inability to use this instrument
or documentation even if advised of the possibility of such damages. In
particular the manufacturer assumes no liability for any material including
negatives or photographs used with this instrument including whatever costs
of repairing, replacing or recovering such materials.
This instrument has been carefully manufactured and tested using flawless
materials and state-of-the-art technology. In case of failure return the
instrument to an authorised service agent accompanied by proof of
purchase. Within the warranty period, the manufacturer assumes the cost of
replacement parts and repair. The manufacturer reserves the right to replace
the instrument in lieu of repairing at its discretion.
Valid for software rev. 3.0
May, 3rd 2013, Changes without notice.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
5
Technical Specifications of the control unit
Measuring probe
probe for exposure and gradation reading automatic
setting of filter module and operating panel, acoustic
support by beeper and LED, diameter of reading
point: ø3mm
Exposure control
built-in exposure timer and light shutter
Measuring range
0.01- 10 lx ( 10 f-stops)
Exposure time range 0.5 - 500 sec,
Resolution
0.01 sec
Time error
<0.5%, repeatability error <0.1%
Gradation input
automatic in 0.1 steps, after reading of the contrast
Manual input
gradation
in 0.1 steps with automatic density control
time
in1/10f-stops or 0.1 sec steps with constant grade
Grad tables
factory adjusted for up to 28 papers (main brands:
AGFA, AMALOCO, FORTE, ILFORD,
KODAK,KENTMERE, MOERSCH, ORIENTAL,
TETENAL ...) and 6 films,
updates by floppy disk or internet download via PC
Interfaces
reading probe, foot switch, RS232, USB
Display
illuminated LCD display with 4 lines
Voltage supply
230 V/50Hz or 110 V/60 Hz (see ID Label)
Dimensions (WxLxH) 160mm x 260mm x 80mm (Version 1...3)
120mm x 210mm x 70mm (Version 4)
Weight
Delivery content
Fuse
6
approx. 1kg without accessories
controller, probe, footswitch, connecting cables,
optional filter module or LED light source
4A time lag
Factory calibrated paper types
Paper type
Display Developer Dilution/Time
ADOX MCP 310 RC
AD MCP310 MOERSCH Eco
ADOX Variotone FB
AD VARIOT MOERSCH Eco
ADOX MCC FB
AD MCC
MOERSCH Eco
FOMA Variant III RC
FM III RC
CALBE N113
FOMA Variant 311 RC
FM V311RC MOERSCH SE4
FOMABROM Variant 111 FB
FM B111FB CALBE N113
FOMATONE MG Classic 131 FB
FM C131FB CALBE N113
ILFORD Multigrade IV RC
IL MGIVRC ILFORD Multigrade
ILFORD Multigrade RC Warmtone IL MGRCWT ILFORD Multigrade
ILFORD Multigrade RC Cooltone IL MGRCCT ILFORD Multigrade
ILFORD Multigrade IV FB
IL MGIVFB ILFORD Multigrade
ILFORD Multigrade Art 300
IL ART300
MOERSCH Eco
ILFORD Multigrade FB Warmtone IL MGFBWT ILFORD Multigrade
KENTMERE VC Select
KE SE RC
KE VC Select Plus
KENTMERE Fineprint VC FB (2012) KE FP FB
KE VC Select Plus
ROLLEI Vintage 311 RC
RO VIN311 MOERSCH SE4
TETENAL Vario RC
TT VariRC
MOERSCH Eco
TETENAL Baryt Vario FB
TT BA VA
MOERSCH Eco
TETENAL Work * use setting AGFA MCP RC
Other papers**
Others
Paper of fixed gradation***
Fixed (Exposure with white light)
1+9 / 75 s
1+14/180 s
1+14/150 s
1+0 / 60 s
1+9 / 60 s
1+0 / 120 s
1+0 / 120 s
1+9 / 60 s
1+9 / 60 s
1+9 / 60 s
1+9 / 120 s
1+14/180 s
1+9 / 120 s
1+9 / 100 s
1+9 / 100 s
1+9 / 60 s
1+14 / 60 s
1+14 / 90 s
Further calibration sets for papers which are no longer under production may be
installed while doing a software upgrade. This refers to brands of AGFA, AMALOCO,
BERGGER, FORTE, FOTO IMPEX, MOERSCH, ORIENTAL, TETENAL, ZONE VI.
* These papers have not been calibrated, but the mentioned settings may
be used with good results. That does not mean that papers are identical.
** Three channels may be used to adapt other papers. Factory setting is
made for low, normal and high sensitive paper. Calibration is done with
general corrections (see page 21)
*** Exposure with white light, time and grade measurement is possible.
There is no certain paper defined, the user adapts his favoured paper by
offset values to the Splitgrade setting.
Please note: All factory settings assume fresh chemistry and paper and 20°
Celsius bath temperature !
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
7
Factory calibrated film types
Film type
Display*
Conventional Silver halide film
ILFORD „XP2“ *
ILFORD „XP2 Super“ *
KODAK „T400CN“ *
KODAK „Portra“ *
KONICA „VX400“ *
Silver halide film developed with Moersch Finol **
Silver halide film developed with Moersch Tanol **
Silver halide film developed with Pyrogallol **
Conv.
XP 2
XP2 S
T400C
Portr
VX400
Finol
Tanol
Pyro.
Notes:
* When a chromogenic B&W film is selected, an additional symbol will be
displayed for the film speed selected during the exposure:
“+” for 50 - 100 ASA
“N” for 200 - 400 ASA
“-“ for 800 - 1000 ASA
** If you use developers giving a stain to the film, you may add additional
offsets to compensate the stain. This is done independent of the paper offset
values. For details please refer to page 21.
Contents of the delivery
If any of the following items are missing or damaged, please contact your
supplier immediately.
• The controller, which interprets the measured values, translates them
into the appropriate paper grade and exposure time and controls the
filter wheel
• The probe, which scans the projected picture and transmits the values to
the controller
• A footswitch to start or stop the exposure
• Cable set to connect the controller, enlarger and darkroom safe light
• Optional: An enlarger module with the motor-driven filter wheel or a
complete light source with a power supply.
Note: we recommend to keep the packaging of the instrument in case of the
need for further shipment.
8
Features
SPLITGRADE is an electronic instrument intended to control the exposures
and the contrast range of variable contrast papers (VC) during enlarging.
•
By printing the picture in two steps using maximum filter setting for
yellow and magenta, print results are greatly improved.
• The contrast range of variable contrast papers will be perfectly matched
to the given contrast range of the negative.
• The characteristics of various variable contrast papers from AGFA,
AMALOCO, BERGGER, FORTE, FOMA, ILFORD, KENTMERE,
KODAK, MOERSCH,TETENAL and ORIENTAL are already stored in
the SPLITGRADE controller unit or could be added to the basic
calibration set.
• The composition and evaluation of the picture takes place under white
light.
• The exposure time and the grade are calculated after a scan of the projected negative. The scan is supported by acoustic and optical signals.
The darkest and the brightest spot detected determine the result.
• The exposure time and paper grade are automatically adapted, also if
another paper type is selected after measurement.
• At any time the usr might override the calculated values or just set the
exposure time and paper grade without using the probe.
• Without an automatic filter module or light source, SPLITGRADE can be
used as a high quality B&W analyser and exposure meter.
• The focus light will be automatically switched OFF after 5 minutes.
• The firmware is easily updated by a free download from our homepage.
To do so, you need a PC with Windows, OS X or Linux operating
system. If you own an older controller (serial no. starts with 02... or 03...
you will need an additional USB-Serial converter to connect the serial
interface of the controller to an USB port of the computer.
• SPLITGRADE is the comprehension of our practical experience
acquired for more than 25 years
Conclusion
The usage of the SPLITGRADE system enables the production of high
quality prints and fine art prints, with a speed and comfort never reached
before by any other system.
As this printing system greatly improves printing efficiency, while saving
time, chemistry and paper, every photographer will have much more time for
creative printing.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
9
Operation conditions
Safety advice
This instruction manual should be read prior to installation and first use.
The SPLITGRADE controller and module contained in this package are
intended to operate only with the appropriate enlarger. The type of enlarger
is specified on the front label of the package.
To prevent electric shock or fire hazard, remove the power cord from the AC
supply prior to connecting or disconnecting any signal lead or prior to
replacing the fuse.
If one of the AC cables becomes damaged, refer servicing only to qualified
personnel.
Should any liquid drop into the SPLITGRADE controller or modules,
disconnect immediate the control unit from mains and have it checked by
qualified personnel before operating it again.
Unplug the SPLITGRADE controller from the voltage supply, if it is not going
to be used for several days or more. To disconnect the supply cable, pull it
by the plug. Never pull the cord itself, otherwise the cable will be damaged.
Make sure that the mains voltage and frequency are in the range indicated
on the identification label on the bottom of the instrument.
This instrument should only be connected to a properly installed voltage
supply outlet that has been properly grounded to earth.
It is not permitted to exchange the power cables for any other without
protected ground / earth wire and safety plug.
Always keep the instrument in a dry place and never immerse it in any kind
of liquid.
To prevent electric shock do not open. There are no user-serviceable parts
inside.
To avoid fire hazard, use only a fuse of the correct type, voltage and current
rating as specified in technical data (see page 6).
Installing the filter module and controller
All filter modules or enlarger heads, supplied together with SPLITGRADE,
are compatible to those of the enlarger manufacturer. Please refer to the
user manual of the enlarger regarding the installation of the module or head.
Do not install the set in a hot or humid place or in a place subject to
excessive dust. Take care that there is enough working space around the
controller to operate it safely in the dark.
10
Connecting the system
Fig. 2: Rear view of the SPLITGRADE Controller unit
Version 1...3
Version 4
USB
Fuse 4A time lag
The controller can be used at voltages according to the id label located at
the bottom of the unit.
All connectors, the main switch and fuse are located at the rear side
connector panel (see Fig. 2).
First, connect all components to the controller like filter module or filter head,
the enlarger and the darkroom safelight. Secure the signal cables by
fastening the screws carefully. Please do not apply brute force.
Finally connect the SPLITGRADE Controller to the main voltage supply.
If a motorised filter module is connected, the filters will be moved to an initial
position after switching ON. The rotation of the motor may be audible.
Component
Filter module
Probe
Splitgrade Comfort
Power plug of enlarger
Darkroom safelight
Main Voltage Supply
Foot switch
PC (only for software update)
Cable/Plug
15-pin female
9-pin female
9-pin male
Adapter cable
Adapter cable
Power cable
Jack plug 2.5mm
9-pin male (Ver 1..3)
USB (Ver. 4)
Label at Controller
Module
Probe
Com 1
Enlarger
Safelight
Power Supply
Foot Switch
Com 1
Table 1: Connections
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
11
Using the controller
Description of the push-buttons and the display
The functions are controlled by push-buttons, the buttons marked by * have
an auto repeat function.
One short press changes the value in one step, a longer press will result in a
repeated change of the value.
Focus, ON/OFF switches the enlarger light on/off,
for setting the enlarger and scanning the picture with the probe.
Start/Stop, starts (or stops) the exposure time shown in the display.
The remaining time is still stored and can be recalled by pressing the
start button again. If during exposure any button other than the start
button is pressed, the exposure will stop and the time will be
cancelled. Splitgrade controllers of the first generation are using the
upper symbol, those of the second generation the second symbol.
Plus,* increases the value marked by the cursor in one step, or
changes the function.
Minus,* reduces the value marked by the cursor in one step, or
changes the function.
Cursor, moves the cursor in the direction of the arrow or to the next
line.
Page, switches between the pages of the LCD display.
Foot switch, starts (or stop) the exposure.
Probe switch, starts and stops the density measurement
Display
All data important for the working of the system are shown in the 4-lines
display. The contrast can be regulated by turning a screw (potentiometer),
which is accessible through a tiny hole at the left rear side of the controller.
12
THE QUICK PATH TO HIGH QUALITY PRINTS
In order to profit from the SPLITGRADE system very quickly you should
proceed as follows:
Preparation
•
•
•
•
Connect the controller following the safety advice on page 10.
Use a paper and matching chemistry as indicated on page 7 of this
manual using only fresh paper and chemistry.
Do not use old paper or used chemistry.
Switch the controller ON.
If the filter module and the probe are connected properly, the controller
displays the following information for a short while:
1.Software release
2.Type of enlarger
The display will look similar like that:
Exposure time
in seconds
Cursor
After power on: Offset values KY and KM of filter module
Next after: Temporary offsets by the user
Temp.: 0.0f / 0.0G
Time: 5.40 s Grad: 2.0

Paper grade for the
print in the range of
00.0 to 5.0
Selected paper
e.g. ILFORD
Selected film type
P: IL MGIVRC F: Conv.
MULTIGRADE
e.g. Conventional
IV RC
•
If you like to change the paper type, move the cursor to P: by pressing
the
or button.
•
Start the selection of the paper type by pressing the
or
button. Each time you press the button, another paper brand will
appear. Continue pressing or simply hold the “+” or “-“ button until your
preferred paper is displayed. Accept the selection by pressing the
button.
•
If necessary, move the displayed cursor to “F”: in the display and
change the type of film the same way.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
13
Printing
•
•
•
Put the negative in the negative carrier.
Switch on focus light by pressing the button
The following display appears:
Indicates the selected
measurement mode
(refer to page 20)
The contrast of the
previous measured
negative
•
Focus active
Mode: continuous
Start density meas.
Previous contr: 0.00
Set up the magnification and focus the image. Then stop down the fstop of the enlarger lens.
Measurement is always done at working f-stop.
•
•
Put the probe into any part of the projected image, taking care that the
green window on top of the photo sensor is not covered.
Start the measuring procedure by briefly pressing the red button on the
probe, An intermittent signal sounds and you will have the following
display:
Focus active
Mode: continuous
Density meas. active
Contrast: 0.01
•
Move the probe over the projected image while looking for the darkest
and the brightest areas until the signal stops. Maximum probe
movement velocity is 5cm/sec, which is similar to the movement of a
computer mouse. The displayed contrast will increase.
We recommend not to measure very small spots like lamps and candle
lights, as their contribution is not important for the overall impression of
the print but can falsify the measurement resulting in a too soft grade.
14
When the sound stops for a longer time, you might stop the measuring
procedure by pressing the red button again. You will get a display similar like
that:
Focus active
Mode: continuous
Density meas. active
Contrast: 1.05
Measured contrast
(for example 1.05)
•
Switch OFF the enlarger light by pressing the button
.
The display shows the exposure time and the paper grade as calculated
by the controller for the selected paper and film type.
If the beeper sound 3 times, please check the display and refer to the
detailed description in section "Error messages" on next page.
•
After a successful measurement put the paper on the enlarging easel
and start the exposure by pressing the
•
button.
Process the paper.
Result
The lightest and darkest portions of the negative, which have been
measured, result in about 90% of the max. density and a light grey print
tone. This is what we call a technical correct print. It will satisfy your
requirements for a good start in most cases.
If you wish to change the print, please refer to the chapter “Manual change
of the grade” on next page.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
15
Error messages
Failures during or after measuring will be announced by a 3 beep signal and
displayed as follows:
Too much light
Start meas. again
Too much light, close the f-stop
and start measuring again
Too little light
Start meas. again
Too little light, open the f-stop and
start measuring again
Time too long
Start meas. again
Exposure time is too long, open the f-stop and
start measuring again
Time too short
Start meas. again
Exposure time is too short, close the f-stop and
start measuring again
Check contrast
The measured contrast is out of the ISO-R range
of the selected paper. If you proceed, you may
loose details, because the paper grade could not
get less 00 or more than 5.
Another reason might be, that you covered the photo sensor or you moved it
outside the negative (e.g. to the base plus fog area) while measuring. This
results also in a large contrast.
16
MANUAL CHANGES
Changing the grade
If, after developing the print, you have the impression that the print should be
a little harder or softer, move the cursor in the display to the position Grad:
and change the grade in steps of 1/10 grade with the buttons
or
.
The exposure time will be adjusted automatically to achieve constant lights,
mid grey or shadows – what ever you set in the user preferences..
These changes are displayed in line 1 of the LCD and are valid until a new
measurement is started. You might return at any time to the original values.
Changing the exposure time
If the print should be darker or lighter, move the cursor to position Time: and
change the exposure time according to your needs with the buttons
or
Factory setting affects changes in steps of 1/10 f-stop, re calculating the
exposure time considering the reciprocity failure.
At any time you might change that default setting to a linear change in units
of seconds.
These changes are also temporary and are displayed in the first line of the
LCD. A new measurement override the changes.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
17
Adjustments in special cases
Portraits
If there is a lack of black and white tones in the negative, please change the
measured grade to a grade of about 2 manually. You might use the zone
scale of the comfort unit to adapt the exposure time. To do so switch on
focus light again and press the knob "Start" on the comfort unit. Place the
probe into an area representing skin tone and adjust the exposre time until
the mid LED of the zone scale is in the correct position.
White egg on white plate
In this case the contrast is very low and Splitgrade tries to compensate the
low contrast with a too hard grade. Also the exposure time will be too long.
Solve this problem by altering these values in the opposite direction.
Black dog on black coal
In this case the contrast is also very low. Like in the previous example, a
softer grade has to be selected. The exposure time need no adjustment.
Same tone range for different enlargement scales
If you like to get the same tonal range for pictures of different magnification,
you should always select the same points while measuring.
If you like to clip a part of the negative and the darkest and the brightest
points are not situated in the area to be printed, please measure thes points
also to secure correct reference values for calculation of the paper grade
and the exposure time.
Burning in with pure Yellow or Magenta
If the cursor is in Position Grad: then you may fast change the paper grade
to 00.0 by pressing simultaneously the buttons
and
A value of 5.0 is selected by pressing simultaneously
and
Depending on the selected paper, the light for grade 00.0 may contain a
small amount of Magenta. This is not an error, it is needed for reaching the
max. density of the paper.
18
USER PREFERENCES
Controller-specific settings
Changing the factory set values
Change the settings of the controller according to your needs. Every change
will be stored, even after switching OFF the power, until you change these
values again.
Press the button
to get the following display :
or
moves the cursor to a different line,
setting
or
changes the
Selects the reference point for
manual changes of paper grade
Changes the beeper mode to Metronome, Filterchange or Off
Toggles the time base between
1/10 f-stops and units of one second
Changes the filter sequence from
Yellow/Magenta to Magenta/Yellow
Reference: Shadows
Beeper: Filterchange
Timebase: 1/10f
Filter: Yellow/Magenta
Details of the functions
Reference point:
Before changing the paper grade manually, you might determine which
tonal value should stay unchanged.
Shadows:
The shadows will stay constant at about 90% Dmax (default)
Mid grey:
The mid grey value (approx. zone V) will stay constant
Lights:
The light portions of the print will be unchanged
Beeper:
Metronome:
Filterchange:
Off:
Every second a short signal is produced while the exposure
time is elapsing.
1 sec. before the filter changes a long signal is produced.
No signal during the exposure time
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
19
Time base:
Toggles the time base between 1/10 f-stops and units of one second. The
advantage of 1/10 f-stop is that changes are easier to evaluate when you are
thinking in density values. Moreover, changes are faster if the exposure time
is long. Changing the time in units of a second adapts the step size dynamic
to the exposure time and uses step sizes of 0.01 / 0.1 / 1 seconds,
depending on the absolute exposure time. A quick change of exposure time
is possible, by pressing and holding the + or – button. This mode is provided
for photographers, who do not like to work with 1/10 f-stops.
Filter:
To change the sequence of filtration. This is very helpful when you want to
burn-in or dodge the print .To change for example some areas in the picture
during the exposure with Yellow light, it is advisable to choose the sequence
Magenta/Yellow. You thus can locate the area during the Magenta exposure
phase in order to manipulate this area immediately after the filter change.
Measurement mode / Density measurement
A second mode may be implemented for measuring only selected parts of
the negative. To activate this mode switch on the Focus light,
then press
the button
to get a display like this:
Focus active
Mode: Multipoint
Start dens. measure
Previous contr: 0.89
First place the probe at the lightest point of the negative with details in, then
rd
press the red button of the probe for about half a second. The 3 line
displays now the density in reference to this first point, the last line displays
the contrast that is taken into later calculation. To check the density of other
areas in the negative simply move the probe to this point. To add the
selected point to the later calculation, press the red button of the probe for a
short while. You may also measure the whole negative while moving the
probe and simultaneously pressing and holding down the red button.
To calculate the exposure, release the red button and press
again.
20
General corrections of exposure time and paper grade
Press the
button until you get the following display:
Offset Time:
Offset Grad:
Comp. Stain:
Comp. Stain
Please note, that line 3 and
4 are displayed only when a
film developer causing stain
is selected in the main menu
+0.0 f
+0.0
+0.0 f
+0.0G
Exposure time
If, due to changes in the paper emulsion, your darkroom conditions, the kind
of images or your perception of your prints are generally looking too bright or
too dark, you may compensate this by adapting the exposure time. Press the
button until the cursor is at position: Offset Time.
or
Press the button
or
to change the exposure time in 1/10 f-stops. For
special applications like “Lith printing” the range of exposure time offset is +/4 f-stops. The setting for the grade is not affected by these changes.
Paper grade
If your prints are generally too hard or too soft, you should change the grade
setting.
button until the cursor is at position: Offset Grad.
Press the
or the
Using the
or the
button you can change the setting in 0.1 grade
steps.
Films containing a stain
To compensate for the stain, you might increase the paper grade and the
exposure time. Just not to mix up these offset values with the paper specific
offsets, another two lines are displayed, when choosing 'Tanol', 'Finol' or
'Pyrogallol" developed films. The entered offset values are added to the
paper specific offset values, e.g. the total exposure time is calculated by
adding 'Offset Time' and 'Comp.Stain' to the measured exposure.
Please note:
• All offsets are stored, when you leave the menu by pressing
• For every paper separate offsets could be chosen. Resetting the values
to factory calibration is done by selecting 0.0.
• By using these offsets, you can easily adapt Splitgrade to your personal
requirements or to modified paper processing.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
21
BURN-IN FUNCTION
Activation and Setting
Your SPLITGRADE has a very useful burn-in function. It enables you to
store up to 7 independent burn-in times, building up an exposure sequence
together with the main exposure time. The main exposure is automatically
followed by the burn-in exposure. To enter the menu with the burn in
functions press the
key several times. If the controller is in the main
menu, a short cut is to press the two keys
Main exposure e.g. 5.4s
st
1 burn in (BI) e.g.3.16s
nd
2 BI, e.g. 0.7 f-stops of
main exposure, i.e. 0.7f of
5.4s=3.37s
rd
3 BI, e.g. 2.05s
and
simultaneous.
T0: 5.40s
G: 2.0
T1: 3.16s
G: 5.0
T2: 3.37s 0.7f
G: 00.0
T3: 2.05s
G: ----
Grade of main exposure
e.g. grade 2.0
st
Grade of 1 BI e.g. 5
nd
Grade of 2 BI, e.g. 00
rd
Grade of 3 BI, e.g.
burn in with white light
In line 1 (T0) the calculated (main) exposure time and grade are listed.
If you change these values, please pay attention to the fact that the time and
grade in menu 1 are also altered accordingly.
Changing the time/grade in either line is done by pressing the
or
button until the cursor appears in the desired position. The display switches
automatically between Times 0 to 3 and 4 to 7, while moving the cursor.
Altering the values of the time and grade is done by pressing
or
By pressing these both keys simultaneous, you alter the mode of the burn in
time, which is actually marked by the cursor. You decide if the time should
be independent of the main exposure (in the above example T1 and T3) or
should be adapted to the main exposure in case that the main exposure is
altered (in the above example T2). This feature could be selected for any of
the burn in times. The advantage of the f-stop method is, that after a change
of the enlargement scale, you only have to measure the main exposure time
again and the whole burn in sequence is adapted to this new time.
If you have entered all the times and grades for a special sequence, set the
cursor to the first unused burn-in exposure time. Press and hold the
button in order to change this time to 0.00s or 0.0f-stop. This
signals the end of defining the exposure sequence to the controller.
22
Exposing
Example: You may like to use the main exposure and two additional burn-in
times as well. The values T0 and G0 are the main exposure, values T1 / G1
are the first burn-in and T2 / G2 are the second burn-in time. Afterwards
please set T3 to 0.00s.
Go back to time T0, by using
or
button. To start the exposure
sequence press the button.
. After any exposure is finished, the cursor
moves on to the next line and the according burn-in time can be started by
pressing
again.
The whole sequence is terminated after the last programmed (maximum 7)
exposure has been executed and the cursor moves back to time T0.
You may stop and continue an exposure by pressing the
again,
or you can terminate the whole sequence at any time (also while exposing)
by pressing any other button.
Between the single steps of the sequence you may turn in the red (safe light)
filter in front of the lens and switch on the focus light in order to search for
areas that should be dodged. The focus mode will not terminate the
exposure/burn-in sequence.
All settings will be stored automatically when you leave the burn in menu.
Of course, you may also select only one of the burn in times and start this
time by pressing the
button.
To quit the burn-in function, press the
key, the main menu is displayed.
Burn-in using white light
For any of the burn-in times 1-7, you may select white light for burn-in. To do
so, change the paper grade to 5.0 and press
one more time or select
paper grade 00.0 and press
The display will then show “---“ to indicate the while light mode.
To cancel this setting, simply select another paper grade.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
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23
TEST STRIP MODES
To print a test strip, enter the menu by pressing the button
several times.
SPLITGRADE offers 3 different test strip modes for various purposes. One
mode alters the paper grade, two others alter the time by using separate
exposures or additive exposure times.
You may choose between centering the exposure around the preset values
or just creating a test strip which is only lighter or only darker than the preset
value.
Within every test strip mode you have the flexibility of setting the total
number of test strips (parameter ‘Count’) as well as the step size or width.
Modes ‘Time Separate’
Each exposure is done by the complete calculated time. This requiries the
masking of all but the exposed step or to use single strips of paper. The
paper grade is unchanged. Available modes are:
Time sep-: Test strip created from a light exposure up to the preset value
Time sep : Test strip centered to the preset value
Time sep+: Test strip starting at the preset value with increasing time
Mode ‘Time Additive’
The first exposure illuminates the whole test strip, then the user places the
mask and shifts it from left to the right for any subsequent exposure. The
paper grade is fixed to the preset value. Available modes are:
Time add-: The most right area of the strip represent the preset exposure,
all others are lighter
Time add : Test strip with the preset value in the center of the strip
Time add+: Test strip starting at the preset value with increasing time
Mode ‘Grade’
Each exposure will vary the contrast by the setting of “Step width” . This
mode requires the masking of all but the exposed step or using single strips.
The exposure adjusted according to the reference point set in user
preferences. Available modes are:
Grad- : Test strip created by paper grades softer and equal to the preset
grade
Grad : Test strip with the preset grade in the center of the strip
Grad+: Test strip starts at the preset value and increasing the grade with any
subsequent exposure.
24
As in any other menu move the cursor by using the buttons
Alter the value that is indicated by the cursor with buttons.
Example:
Time: 5.40s Grad: 2.0
Teststrip:_ Time Sep.
Count: 5
Step width: 0.3f
Preset exposure time and grade
Test strip mode (e.g. time separate,
centered)
Total no. of exposures
Change in exposure time
from step to step
After you have defined all necessary values, and press the button
the first exposure.
The display will show the actual time and grade while exposing.
to start
In the example five strips are generated with a paper grade of 2.0 and the
following times: (first exposure) 3.56s / 4.39s / 5.40s / 6.65s / 8.18s (last
exposure). Each exposure will be started after pressing the button
.
While doing the various exposures, the controller display is similar to that:
Time: 4.39s Grad: 2.0
Teststrip 2 of
5
Switching on the focus light with the button
could be useful to check the
position of the mask, of course with the red filter moved in front of the lens.
The whole exposure sequence of the test strip is cancelled by pressing any
other button.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
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25
Controlling up to three different types of enlarger
You may use different types of enlargers / modules with only one controller.
To set up and select the module type, please proceed as follows:
1)
2)
Switch off the controller and connect the new filter module.
Press and hold the button
while switching on. Hold the button
until the following display
appears.
In the first line the
original delivered
module is displayed,
e.g. Leitz V35.
Module(s):
1: LEITZ V35
2: None
3: None
3)
Move the cursor to one of the three lines by using
and select the module type with the
buttons
buttons.
ATTENTION: The enlargers AGFA Varioscope, Leitz Ic and IIc use all
Dunco Filtermodules, so please select “DUNCO” in this case.
4)
By pressing the button
you may toggle between the described
menu and a menu, that enables to enter filter offset values for yellow
(green) and magenta (blue) filters. If you have so far used values in %
or you do not know the offset values, please contact Heiland electronic
to receive the values in units of 1/10 f-stop. Further more you are able
to enter a delay time which is defined from switching on the enlarger
output until the shutter is opened. You may change this time, if you use
a stabilised transformer which need more then 0.5 sec. until the lamp is
switched on. Please note all settings on a sheet of paper.
5)
Finally select the required enlarger or module type by moving the cursor
in the corresponding line and press the button
. In case of a
module error, faulty module selection or a
disconnected module, the controller displays
Check the module and switch on
again while selecting the correct
module type. If Splitgrade should be
used as a timer only, select “None” .
26
Module-Error !
Module type
Switch off controller
Using the controller as a high quality analyser (SPL-M1)
The controller of the SPLITGRADE system can used as a B&W analyser
and timer in conjunction with enlargers for which there is at present no
motorised filter module. The version with order code SPL-M1 is already set
to this manual split exposure mode.
Prior to working, the controller need to be calibrated in reference to your
enlarger. An instruction for calibration may be requested at the
manufacturer, in this case please mention the type of enlarger and light
source. To use the manual split exposure, proceed as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
Install and set up the controller according to the description on page 10.
If you have not purchased the SPL-M1 version, follow the instruction on
page 26 to set the enlarger type to ‘Manual’.
Select paper and film type.
If using a colour or multigrade head on the enlarger, set to white light.
Otherwise remove all filters from the light path.
Switch the enlarger light ON by pressing the
button
•
Select the f-stop in order to achieve a exposure time of at least 5s. This
will reduce the effect of lamp start-up and after-glow on the exposure
•
Measure the exposure and grade as described on page 14
•
Terminate the measurement by pressing the
•
Press the button
and select the displayed filter type. On the colour or
multigrade head dial maximum magenta or yellow; otherwise insert
grade 5 or grade 00 filter in the light path.
•
Start the first exposure by pressing the button
•
Remove the inserted filter or select filter position 0 and select the second
filter as displayed in the controller display
•
Start the second exposure by pressing the button
•
The image has been exposed by using two different filter settings
according to the split grade method.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
button again
again.
27
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
CAUTION:
To prevent electric shock do not open the instrument. There are no
user serviceable parts inside.
Note: Any unauthorised opening or servicing invalidates the guarantee.
Changing the fuse
The fuse is located in a fuse carrier on the rear side of the instrument
(please refer to Fig. 2, Page 11 . To change the fuse, remove the main
power supply connector and open the fuse carrier by using a small
screwdriver.
!!! Use only fuses with a rating of 4A time lag!!!
Care of instrument
The case should be cleaned with a lightly dampened soft cloth or chamois
only, if necessary with the addition of a mild cleaner.
Do not use solvents or abrasive materials.
The probe should be cleaned only with a soft brush or compressed air to
remove dust, otherwise the incorporated sensor might be damaged
permanently.
Unplug the instrument when not in use for long periods of time.
For necessary repairs send the instrument to the manufacturer or authorised
service centre.
28
APPENDIX: DETAILS OF FILM AND PAPER PROGRAMS
The controller is factory-equipped with programs controlling the exposure
time and grade for a given combination of variable contrast paper and
negatives of a certain kind.
These programs may be adjusted from time to time according to the current
characteristics of commercially available papers and films.
Program adjustment for films
Classic B&W films: The setting 'Conv.´ covers all conventional silver halide
films as long as the film base does not show any peculiar colour, which
could influence the measurement of the time and the grade.
Chromogenic B&W films: These films are modified colour films, processed
in C41 chemistry mostly by professional labs.
Detailed tests show that despite the strictly standard C41 developing
process, the tint of the film might differ. As these differences can imply nonpredictable differences in exposure time and grade, the measured values
can only be a clue which should be adjusted if necessary.
Another peculiarity of chromogenic film is its reaction to different exposures.
In the same way as for silver halide films, the best results are obtained when
the exposure is done with enough light. The reduction of the ASA setting by
about a half or a quarter improves the details in the shadow areas of the
print and yields finer grain.
The contrast of the negative changes with the exposure value: with
increasing exposure the contrast becomes higher with the result that
doubling or quadrupling the ASA value yields negatives which are hard to
print.
For all these reasons the programs for chromogenic films are provided with
a compensation for the different modes in which the film was exposed. They
are collected in the group ”N” for normally exposed film, “+” for longer and
“–“ for shorter exposures.
If you do not know the exposure mode for a given film, start with the
adjustment “N”. If the result is too light try again with the “+” setting , if they
are too dark, try it with the “–“ setting. If you are not able to get satisfactory
results, try to use the "General corrections” (see page 21).
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
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29
Films containing a stain: Especially fine art printers appreciate the
improved details in the highlight sections of a print effected by a stain in the
film. That stain is caused by special developers like Pyrogallol, Tanol and
Finol.
On the other hand, the photographer need to adjust the selected paper
grade and exposure time to get acceptable print results. In most cases it is
necessary to raise the paper grade by approx. +0.5 to +1.0 and to increase
the exposure time by about half of an f-stop.
No exact values could be recommended here, but every photographer will
know the approximate values for his process. These offsets could be
entered separate from the basic paper specific settings if the users selects
either 'Finol', Tanol' or 'Pyrogallol' as the film type. Of course we know, this is
not a film type, but the selection of these special developers fit best in the
section of film types. Please refer to page for details.
Paper programs:
The papers listed in the Table 1 are all with glossy surface and were
developed in a tray, strictly following the recommendations of the
manufacturers, including the kind of chemicals used and developing time.
The prints were dried with hot air at 60°C.
Papers with a matt surface share the same emulsion as glossy papers.
Never the less, you might add small offsets to adjust the appearance of the
print according to the reduced max. density.
Note: The use of old materials, paper or developer, or varying the
instructions of the manufacturers, may change the results you can
expect.
30
Further products of Heiland electronic for your darkroom
High precision monochrome densitometer
for all tasks in general
B&W photography,
microfilm-applications
and repro companies.
TAS film processor
If you would like to receive
further information about our
products, please refer to
our address, located on
the back cover.
SPLITGRADE USER MANUAL
V3.0
31
Heiland electronic GmbH
Schulstrasse 8
D-35579 Wetzlar
Phone: ++49 6441 26978
Fax:
++49 6441 26988
email:
Internet:
[email protected]
http://www.heilandelectronic.de